H&R Block Testimony of IRS Tax Preparer Regulations

By: H&R Block | 3 Shares 106 Reads

KANSAS CITY, MO (MARKETWIRE via COMTEX) -- H&R Block (NYSE: HRB) is pleased to testify in support of the proposed IRS regulations for tax return preparers. As an industry leader for 55 years, we believe everyone will benefit from this effort to raise the professional standards for all tax return preparers. That's especially true for taxpayers, who will have confidence knowing the preparers they use will be knowledgeable, skilled and ethical; and who will benefit from the subsequent lower error rates and fewer audits. H&R Block is eager to work with the IRS to ensure a smooth and fair implementation of these common-sense regulations. The recommendations we offered today will ensure that all taxpayers benefit as quickly as possible from these new regulations.

Among H&R Block's recommendations:

The IRS should allow employers to use a group registration process and to validate employee PTINs, which would jumpstart implementation of the new regulations in a cost-effective manner.
The definition of tax return preparer should be broadened, so that taxpayers are confident that any preparer they engage, paid or unpaid, has the same standards of knowledge, skill and ethics.
The effective date of Dec. 31, 2010, should be contingent on adequate preparation, including a robust IRS public awareness campaign, so that tax preparers and taxpayers alike understand and support the new regulations.

About H&R Block

H&R Block Inc. (NYSE: HRB) is the world's preeminent tax services provider, having prepared more than 500 million tax returns since 1955. In fiscal 2009, H&R Block had annual revenues of $4.1 billion and prepared more than 24 million tax returns worldwide, utilizing more than 100,000 highly trained tax professionals. The Company provides tax return preparation services in person, through H&R Block At Home(TM) online and desktop software products, and through other channels. The Company is also one of the leading providers of business services through RSM McGladrey.

SOURCE: H & R Block

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